Joe’s Health Calendar Aug. 20

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Healthier Living in South Stockton

Aug. 20 (today) 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (also Aug. 27, Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24): St. Joseph’s Medical Center/Dignity Health would like to invite the public to Healthier Living, a program created by Stanford University. The program gives support and teaches people how to live with different chronic health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, depression and hypertension. Because St. Joseph’s cares about your health, this program is free in this area. During the program, you will learn to: take control of your health and be able to do more; be less tired and worried; sleep better and have less pain; talk with your doctors, friends and family about your health needs; set goals and solve problems so you can make the changes you want. The program is held once a week for six weeks and is led by someone who is living successfully with a chronic disease. Dorothy L. Jones Community and Health Center, Community Partnership for Families of San Joaquin, 2044 Fair St., Stockton. Sign up with Ann at (209) 444-5555. Space is limited.

Healthier Living in Lodi

Aug. 21 (Thursday) 6 to 8:30 p.m. (also Aug. 28, Sept. 4): St. Joseph’s Medical Center/Dignity Health would like to invite the public to Healthier Living, a program created by Stanford University. The program gives support and teaches people how to live with different chronic health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, depression and hypertension. Because St. Joseph’s cares about your health, this program is free in this area. During the program, you will learn to: take control of your health and be able to do more; be less tired and worried; sleep better and have less pain; talk with your doctors, friends and family about your health needs; set goals and solve problems so you can make the changes you want. The program is held once a week for six weeks and is led by someone who is living successfully with a chronic disease. Lodi Public Library, 201 W. Locust St., Lodi. Sign up today at (209) 333-5503. Space is limited.

Free Health Fair and Block Party

Aug. 24 (Sunday) 1 to 7 p.m.: A free health fair and block party is being held at Mayfair Seventh-day Adventist Church, 6940 N. El Dorado St., Stockton (off the frontage road). St. Joseph’s Medical Center CareVan will be on site providing blood sugar testing for diabetes and diabetes education. Information and registration will be available for Enhanced Care MD health plans and health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. Healings in Motion will provide information and resources on stroke prevention and recovery. Alpha Phi chapter will provide blood pressure screening. There will be prizes and drawings including girl and boy bicycles and back-to-school supplies, as well as school haircuts provided by the Marinello Beauty School.

Healthier Living in Central Stockton

Sept. 3 (Wednesday) 2:30 to 5 p.m. (also Sept. 10, 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8): St. Joseph’s Medical Center/Dignity Health would like to invite the public to Healthier Living, a program created by Stanford University. The program gives support and teaches people how to live with different chronic health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, depression and hypertension. Because St. Joseph’s cares about your health, this program is free in this area. During the program, you will learn to: take control of your health and be able to do more; be less tired and worried; sleep better and have less pain; talk with your doctors, friends and family about your health needs; set goals and solve problems so you can make the changes you want. The program is held once a week for six weeks and is led by someone who is living successfully with a chronic disease. St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Cleveland Classroom, 2102 N. California St., Stockton, within main employee parking lot. Sign up by calling (209) 944-8355, press 0 for attendant. Space is limited.

Free Health Fair and Block Party

Aug. 24 (Sunday) 1 to 7 p.m.: Mayfair Seventh-day Adventist Church is holding a free health fair and block party at 6940 N. El Dorado St., Stockton (off the frontage road). It will include screenings, health education and information, prizes and drawings as well as free haircuts. Click here for more information.

Healthier Living in Central Stockton

Sept. 3 (Wednesday) 2:30 to 5 p.m. (also Sept. 10, 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8): St. Joseph’s Medical Center/Dignity Health would like to invite the public to Healthier Living, a program created by Stanford University. The program gives support and teaches people how to live with different chronic health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, depression and hypertension. Because St. Joseph’s cares about your health, this program is free in this area. During the program, you will learn to: take control of your health and be able to do more; be less tired and worried; sleep better and have less pain; talk with your doctors, friends and family about your health needs; set goals and solve problems so you can make the changes you want. The program is held once a week for six weeks and is led by someone who is living successfully with a chronic disease. St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Cleveland Classroom, 2102 N. California St., Stockton, within main employee parking lot. Sign up by calling (209) 944-8355, press 0 for attendant. Space is limited.

Hospitals, Groups Partner for Stroke Awareness and Progress

Sept. 6 (Saturday) 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Stroke is the No. 1 cause of long-term disability throughout America. Stroke is the fourth cause of death in the United States and California. Patient-driven nonprofit agency Healings in Motion, based in Stockton, has united area hospitals and retail partners such as Walgreens, San Joaquin County Office of Education nurses, University of the Pacific, Delta Blood Bank, San Joaquin County Public Health Services, the county Department of Aging, San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District and others as stakeholders to increase stroke awareness - the symptoms and risk factors – because stroke residuals affect the health of the entire community. “Telehealth and telemedicine has made better stroke care possible in more geographic areas. More hospitals have trained teams and are meeting the guidelines to become a Certified Stroke Center. It is critical to act quickly at the onset of a stroke. Call 9-1-1 immediately and get to the hospital. Depending on the type of stroke there is a three-hour window to be eligible to receive the only FDA approved clot-busting agent, Tissue Plasminogen Activation (tPA). If applicable, receiving the tPA could reverse the stroke symptoms or reduce the disabilities caused by a stroke,” said Mary Nicholson, founding director of Healings in Motion. Cheryl Heaney-Ordez, RN, MSN, director of Emergency Services and Stroke Program Team Leader at St. Joseph’s Medical Center, points out that “one of the most important things you can do to improve your chances of recovering from a stroke, is to activate the 911 system early. We (at St. Joseph’s Medical Center) oftentimes see many patients who put off coming to the emergency department for several hours and sometimes the next day. Unfortunately, for these patients, it is often too late for us to do anything that could potentially reverse the effects of the stroke. So remember this simple phrase if you, or someone you know, thinks they may be having a stroke: F.A.S.T. – Face is drooping, Arm is weak, Speech is unclear or slurred, Time to call 911 for help. Remember that time is of the essence, so act fast and call 911 early on – don’t wait!” Partners for Stroke Awareness and Progress is the official name adopted by the alliance of hospitals and other stakeholders that are working together for this cause. The partners will be part of the Healings in Motion Stroke Pavilion at the upcoming Stroke Awareness and Prevention Fair at the University of the Pacific, Parking Lot 2 and Alumna Center, 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton. This event is free and open to the public. The community is encouraged to come out and enjoy the day’s activities. The fair kicks off with the Heart and Stroke Walk, presented by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. The day includes entertainment by comedian and magician, Heather Rogers, information and demonstrations shared about blood pressure and other risk factors of stroke, prizes and music. What a fun way to become educated about strokes and how to react should the need arise. The Central Valley Stroke Guide, a comprehensive publication including articles from all area hospitals, national, regional and local resources, will be provided to all participants. For more information about the Stroke Awareness and Prevention Fair, call (877) 672-4480 or go to www.healingsinmotion.org or email contact@healingsinmotion.org.

Stockton CHP Offers Age Well, Drive Smart Class

Sept. 13 (Saturday) 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.: The California Highway Patrol has received a $200,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety for the next senior driver safety and mobility grant, “Keeping Everyone Safe V” (KEYS). The KEYS V grant focuses on continuing the existing Age Well, Drive Smart education program statewide for individuals aged 65 years and older. California is facing continuing growth in the number of adults aged 65 years and over residing in the state. According to the California Department of Finance, only 9 percent of the total California population was aged 65 years and older in 1970. However, in 2011, the number of adults, ages 65 and over, represented 11.7 percent. It is projected that by the year 2020, California will have 15 percent or over 6 million adults, ages 65 and older, living in the state. This dramatic increase in California’s older adult population can be attributed to the aging of its “baby boomers.” The goal of the program is to help California’s seniors maintain their driving independence for as long as they can safely drive. In an effort to educate senior drivers the CHP offers this two-hour, “Age Well, Drive Smart,” course. Through this program, seniors can tune up their driving skills, refresh their rules of the road knowledge, and learn about normal age-related physical and mental changes and how to adjust to these changes. The course will be held at the CHP Stockton Area Office, 3330 N. Ad Art Road, Stockton. Senior drivers and family interested in signing up for the class will need to register for the class by calling (209) 943-8666 (space is limited). Information: Officer James Smith at (209) 943-8666.

Early Childhood Education Research Symposium

Sept. 18 (Thursday) 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: The San Joaquin County Early Childhood Education Research and Practice Symposium and Beyond Our Gates Dialogue of University of the Pacific hosted at the San Joaquin County Office of Education. Registration: $25 (professional growth hours available). Information: Jennifer Torres Siders at jtorressiders@pacific.edu.

Health Fair & Let’s Move Day in Manteca

Sept. 21 (Sunday) 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Fifth annual Health Fair & Let’s Move Day will be held at the Manteca Seventh-day Adventist Church, 525 S. Union Road, Manteca. We are expanding our Fitness Pavilion activities focusing on Let’s Move!, movement for all ages, and an expanded dynamic Kids Expo component. A nationally renowned chef will provide the cooking demos and a food concession; Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy will also provide free haircuts for the second year. A complimentary continental breakfast will be served.

Free Clinics to Help People with Medicare Save Money

Student pharmacists from University of the Pacific Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy & Health Sciences will hold health clinics in seven cities this fall to help people with Medicare save money on their prescription drug costs, better understand their medications, and receive a variety of health care screenings and services. Now in its eighth year, Pacific’s Mobile Medicare Clinics have served 2,911 Medicare beneficiaries, saving seniors and other beneficiaries over $2.2 million, or an average of $769 per beneficiary per year, on their out-of-pocket Medicare Part D prescription drug costs since the program began. This year’s clinics will be offered during the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period (Oct. 15 through Dec. 7) in our Bay Area cities – Berkeley, San Jose, San Francisco and Oakland – as well as three San Joaquin County cities – Lodi, Stockton and Tracy. Trained pharmacy students will assist beneficiaries with Part D plan review and enrollment, determine if they qualify for additional government assistance to help lower their out-of-pocket medication costs, and explore other cost-savings opportunities. Attendees will also be provided with a comprehensive review of all of their medications and have all of their medication-related questions answered. Since the program’s inception, Pacific student pharmacists have identified 137 potentially severe medication-related issues among clinic attendees, including severe drug-drug interactions and sub-optimal drug therapy that warranted physician follow-up. Under the supervision of licensed pharmacists, the student pharmacists will also offer different vaccinations including the flu and pneumococcal vaccines, diabetes screening and blood pressure testing, cholesterol and bone-density testing, and much more. All told, pharmacy students have held 73 clinics in 16 California cities, volunteering a combined 9,072 hours of time since the program first began. If you would like to have your Part D plan reviewed and/or have a comprehensive evaluation of your medication, please call for an appointment. Phone numbers for each clinic site are listed below. IMPORTANT: Beneficiaries attending the clinic should bring the following: their red, white and blue Medicare card; and all of their medications. For general information about the program, visit go.pacific.edu/medicare or contact us at (209) 932-2958.

Healthier Living in East Stockton

Sign up for future workshop: St. Joseph’s Medical Center/Dignity Health would like to invite the public to Healthier Living, a program created by Stanford University. The program gives support and teaches people how to live with different chronic health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, depression and hypertension. Because St. Joseph’s cares about your health, this program is free in this area. During the program, you will learn to: take control of your health and be able to do more; be less tired and worried; sleep better and have less pain; talk with your doctors, friends and family about your health needs; set goals and solve problems so you can make the changes you want. The program is held once a week for six weeks and is led by someone who is living successfully with a chronic disease. Emmanuel Baptist Church, 715 S. Windsor Ave., Stockton. To sign up for a future workshop, contact Joyce Williams at (209) 463-7889.

CareVan Offers Free Mobile Health Clinic

St. Joseph’s Medical Center CareVan offers a free health clinic for low-income and no-insurance individuals or families, 16 years old and older. Mobile health care services will be available to handle most minor urgent health care needs such as mild burns, bumps, abrasions, sprains, sinus and urinary tract infections, cold and flu. No narcotics prescriptions will be available. Information: (209) 461-3471 or www.StJosephsCares.org/Carevan. Clinic schedule is subject to change without notice. Walk-In appointments are available.

ER Wait Watcher: Which ER Will See You the Fastest?

Heading to the emergency room? ProPublica provides a great tool to help. You may wait a while before a doctor or other treating professional sees you — and the hospital nearest to you might not be the one that sees you the fastest. Click here to look up average ER wait times, as reported by hospitals to the federal government, as well as the time it takes to get there in current traffic, as reported by Google.

NEWS

All Calaveras County Health Workers Must Receive Flu Vaccine

On Aug. 12, 2014, Calaveras County Public Health Services released an order from Dr. Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County health officer, mandating all licensed health care facilities in Calaveras County require their healthcare workers to receive an annual influenza vaccination, or if they decline, to wear a surgical mask during every influenza season. Healthcare workers are all of the doctors, nurses, technicians and other support staff working in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and other licensed care facilities. For those healthcare workers who decline to get a seasonal influenza vaccination, they will be required to wear a surgical mask while working in patient care areas for the entire influenza season (defined as Nov. 1 through March 31 of the following year. “Healthcare workers are both at risk for influenza and can transmit the virus to their patients,” Kelaita said. “Influenza vaccination of HCW’s has been shown to prevent transmission to our patients and save lives.” The influenza shot requirement will not apply to those who work in assisted living facilities or provide in-home care. Those who provide mental health counseling and substance abuse services will also not be mandated to get an influenza vaccination. “Numerous studies have shown that requiring HCW’s to be vaccinated for influenza increases the rates of vaccination of the healthcare work force to over 90 percent. A protected work force protects vulnerable patients we are dedicated to serve,” Kelaita said. Please contact Public Health Services at (209) 754-6460 with any questions, or visit our website at www.calaveraspublichealth.com.

Best Kept Secret Volunteer Opportunity – HICAP

HICAP – Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program – needs volunteers in San Joaquin County, and we are looking for those energetic, bright people interested in helping others. HICAP is a “best kept secret.” Not too many people know about our free services until they really need them and are referred by the Social Security Administration, or through a call to 1-800-Medicare. We look for those energetic, engaged retirees who want to give back to their community by helping others. We provide in-depth training over a two-week “Basic Training” class, and then offer (almost) monthly Technical Trainings to be sure we are sharing information, and our counselors are up on the latest issues affecting seniors and people with disabilities who have Medicare. It is an important and rewarding volunteer opportunity. We are accepting applications now for the class beginning July 23 in Lodi. Information: Margaret Reilly with HICAP Services of Northern California atmreilly@hicapservices.netor (916) 375-3762; or Dianna Powell, San Joaquin County regional coordinator, at (209) 470-7812.

Breastfeeding and Working

The Breastfeeding Coalition of San Joaquin County is excited to announce that its “Working & Breastfeeding” Toolkit is now available at BreastfeedSJC.org. This toolkit contains tips, answers to frequently asked questions and links to online resources for families and employers. Jump on over to BreastfeedSJC.org/Working-and-Breastfeeding to check it out.

Measles Outbreaks Prompt Travel and Vaccine Reminders

When planning for future international travel, make sure to include plans for keeping you and your family healthy. Your need for travel vaccinations depends on your immunization history, your health status, the specific areas you plan to visit, the time of year, and whether any outbreaks of disease have recently occurred. Many vaccine-preventable diseases, now rarely seen in the United States, are still common in other parts of the world. Getting vaccinated before you travel is the best and easy way to protect yourself and your loved ones against serious diseases such as tetanus, hepatitis, meningitis, rabies, yellow fever, typhoid fever and measles. Since many vaccines take time to provide full protection and some vaccines must be given in a series that can take several days or weeks, try to schedule a doctor’s visit 4-6 weeks before your trip. Review your family’s vaccination history to make sure everyone is up-to-date on their routine vaccinations, including Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A and Polio, as well as any required or recommended vaccines for travel to other countries. Currently in California, measles is a growing health concern related to international travel. The latest report from the California Department of Public Health confirmed 51 measles cases so far this year as of April 7 (none in San Joaquin County), compared with just four reported by this time last year. Measles remains a common, serious and highly contagious disease in many parts of the world, including the Philippines, India and other areas in Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and Africa. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year, measles infects about 20 million people and kills about 164,000 people worldwide; and 100,000 of these deaths are children. Anyone traveling overseas may be exposed to measles and could become ill if they have never had measles or have not been properly vaccinated. Measles can come into the U.S. easily through infected visitors or through those returning to the U.S. from international travel. Infected individuals can spread the disease and spark outbreaks among pockets of unvaccinated people in the U.S., including infants and young children. If you are in an airport, airplane, train, bus or other mass transit vehicle, other people can expose you to the disease. Measles is spread by contact with an infected person, through coughing and sneezing. After an infected person leaves a location, the virus remains contagious for up to 2 hours on surfaces and in the air. Infected individuals are generally contagious four days before and four days after a rash first appears. Click here for information.

Funding for Street Outreach Programs

May 12 deadline: The Family and Youth Services Bureau is now accepting applications for the Street Outreach Program. The Street Outreach Program funds organizations that provide street-based services to runaway, homeless and street youth who have been subjected to, or are at risk of being subjected to, sexual abuse, prostitution or sexual exploitation. These services, which are provided in areas where street youth congregate, are designed to assist youth in making healthy choices and ultimately help them leave the streets. Read the funding opportunity announcement.

Diabetes Resources in San Joaquin County

Diabetes is a costly disease, both in terms of people’s health and well-being, and in terms of dollars spent on treatment, medications and lost days at work and school. San Joaquin County annually accounts for among the worst death rates from diabetes among all 58 California counties. In an attempt to make its estimated 60,000 residents with diabetes aware of the many local resources available to help them deal with the disease, a dozen billboards in English and Spanish have been posted around the county directing readers to the UniteForDiabetesSJC.org website. At that website is information on numerous free classes and programs that provide education and training on preventing diabetes, managing the disease, controlling its side effects, and links to more resources, including special events and finding a physician. For questions on how to navigate the website or find a class, residents may call Vanessa Armendariz, community project manager at the San Joaquin Medical Society, at(209) 952-5299. The billboards came about through the efforts of the Diabetes Work Group, a subcommittee of San Joaquin County Public Health’s Obesity and Chronic Disease Prevention Task Force. Funding was provided through a grant from Kaiser Permanente Community Benefit Programs Division-Central Valley Area.

California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones has unveiled a new consumer protection tool for California seniors, who have traditionally been prime targets for con artists. The California Department of Insurance (CDI) is hosting a new Web site www.seniors.ca.gov to educate seniors and their advocates and provide helpful information about how to avoid becoming victims of personal or financial abuse. The Web site, called Senior Gateway, is important because seniors, including older veterans, are disproportionately at risk of being preyed upon financially and subjected to neglect and abuse. The Senior Gateway is sponsored by the Elder Financial Abuse Interagency Roundtable (E-FAIR), convened by CDI and includes representatives from many California agencies who share a common purpose of safeguarding the welfare of California’s seniors. “The goal of this collaborative effort is to assemble, in one convenient location, valuable information not only for seniors, but their families and caregivers. This site will help California seniors find resources and solve problems, and will enable participating agencies to better serve this important segment of our population,” Jones said. The site offers seniors valuable tips and resources in the following areas, and more:

Avoiding and reporting abuse and neglect by in-home caregivers or in facilities; learn about different types of abuse and the warning signs.

Knowing your rights before buying insurance; what seniors need to know about annuities.

Investing wisely and understanding the ins and outs of reverse mortgages.

$5,000 Grants Help Pay for Children’s Medical Expenses

UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation (UHCCF) is seeking grant applications from families in need of financial assistance to help pay for their child’s health care treatments, services or equipment not covered, or not fully covered, by their commercial health insurance plan. Qualifying families can receive up to $5,000 to help pay for medical services and equipment such as physical, occupational and speech therapy, counseling services, surgeries, prescriptions, wheelchairs, orthotics, eyeglasses and hearing aids. To be eligible for a grant, children must be 16 years of age or younger. Families must meet economic guidelines, reside in the United States and have a commercial health insurance plan. Grants are available for medical expenses families have incurred 60 days prior to the date of application as well as for ongoing and future medical needs. Parents or legal guardians may apply for grants at www.uhccf.org, and there is no application deadline. Organizations or private donors can make tax-deductible donations to the foundation at this website. In 2011, UHCCF awarded more than 1,200 grants to families across the United States for treatments associated with medical conditions such as cancer, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, hearing loss, autism, cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, ADHD and cerebral palsy.

Facts About Fruits and Vegetables

ONGOING

Hmong Language Diabetes Classes

The Hmong Community of Stockton is invited to attend free diabetes classes presented in the Hmong language. Call Jou Moua at (209) 298-2374 or (209) 461-3224 to find a class.

Fit Families for Life

Fit Families for Life is a weekly class for parents offered by HealthNet and held at Fathers and Families of San Joaquin, 338 E. Market St., Stockton. All parents are welcome and there is no cost to attend. Participants will learn about nutrition, cooking and exercise. Information and registration: Renee Garcia at (209) 941-0701.

Al-Anon Freedom to Change Support Group

Mondays and Thursdays 7 to 8:30 p.m.: Lodi Health offers Al-Anon Freedom to Change meetings for family and friends of problem drinkers. The group helps people to know what to do when someone close to them drinks too much. Meetings are offered several times each month at Lodi Memorial Hospital, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi. Information: www.lodihealth.org.

Man-to-Man Prostate Cancer Support Group

First Monday of Month 7 to 9 p.m.: Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton, holds a support group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer and their families and caregivers. The meetings are facilitated by trained volunteers who are prostate cancer survivors. Information: Ernest Pontiflet at (209) 952-9092.

Respiratory Support Group for Better Breathing

First Tuesday of month 10 to 11 a.m.: Lodi Health’s Respiratory Therapy Department and the American Lung Association of California Valley Lode offer a free “Better Breathers’” respiratory-support group for people and their family members with breathing problems including asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. Participants will learn how to cope with chronic lung disease, understand lungs and how they work and use medications and oxygen properly. The group meets at Lodi Health West, 800 S. Lower Sacramento Road, Lodi. Pre-registration is recommended by calling (209) 339-7445. For information on other classes available at Lodi Memorial, visit its website at www.lodihealth.org.

The Beat Goes On Cardiac Support Group

First Tuesday of month 11 a.m. to noon: Lodi Health offers a free cardiac support group at Lodi Health West, 800 S. Lower Sacramento Road, Lodi. “The Beat Goes On” cardiac support group is a community-based nonprofit group that offers practical tools for healthy living to heart disease patients, their families and caregivers. Its mission is to provide community awareness that those with heart disease can live well through support meetings and educational forums. Upcoming topics include exercise, stress management and nutrition counseling services. All are welcomed to attend. Information: (209) 339-7664.

Planned Childbirth Services

Tuesdays 6 to 8 p.m.: Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton, hosts a four-class series which answers questions and prepares mom and her partner for labor and birth. Bring two pillows and a comfortable blanket or exercise mat to each class. These classes are requested during expecting mother’s third trimester. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN (209) 461-3136 or www.Dameronhospital.org.

Lactation Support Group in Lodi

Tuesdays 10 a.m.: Lodi Health offers The Lactation Club, a support group for breastfeeding moms that is held in Classroom A at Lodi Memorial Hospital, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi. Lactation consultants are readily available to answer questions and help with breastfeeding issues. A scale will also be on hand to weigh babies. Information: (209) 339.7872 or www.lodihealth.org.

Say Yes to Breastfeeding

Tuesdays 6 to 8 p.m.: Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton, offers a class that outlines the information and basic benefits and risk management of breastfeeding. Topics include latching, early skin-to-skin on cue, expressing milk and helpful hints on early infant feeding. In addition, the hospital offers a monthly Mommy and Me-Breastfeeding support group where mothers, babies and hospital clerical staff meet the second Monday of each month. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN (209) 461-3136 or www.Dameronhospital.org.

Precious Preemies

Second Tuesday of the month, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.: Precious Preemies: A Discussion Group for Families Raising Premature Infants and Infants with Medical Concerns required registration and is held at Family Resource Network, Sherwood Executive Center, 5250 Claremont Ave., Suite 148, Stockton. Information: www.frcn.org/calendar.asp or (209) 472-3674 or (800) 847-3030.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous

Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a free Twelve Step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia. For more information or a list of additional meetings throughout the U.S. and the world, call (781) 932-6300 or visitwww.foodaddicts.org.

Break From Stress

Wednesdays 6 to 7 p.m.: St. Joseph’s Medical Center offers the community a break from their stressful lives with Break from Stress sessions. These sessions are free, open to the public, with no pre-registration necessary. Just drop in, take a deep breath and relax through a variety of techniques. Break from Stress sessions are held in St. Joseph’s Cleveland Classroom (behind HealthCare Clinical Lab on California Street just north of the medical center. Information: SJCancerInfo@DignityHealth.orgor (209) 467-6550.

Mother-Baby Breast Connection

Wednesdays 1 to 3 p.m.: Join a lactation consultant for support and advice on the challenges of early breastfeeding. Come meet other families and attend as often as you like. A different topic of interest will be offered each week with time for breastfeeding assistance and questions. Pre-registration is required. Call (209) 467-6331. St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Pavilion Conference Room (1st floor), 1800 N. California St., Stockton.

Adult Children With Aging Relatives

Second Wednesday of month 4:30 p.m.: Lodi Health offers an Adult Children with Aging Relatives support group at the Hutchins Street Square Senior Center. Information: (209) 369-4443 or (209) 369-6921.

Smoking Cessation Class in Lodi

Wednesdays 3 to 4 p.m.: Lodi Health offers an eight-session smoking-cessation class for those wishing to become smoke free. Classes are held weekly in the Lodi Health Pulmonary Rehabilitation Department at Lodi Memorial Hospital, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi. Topics covered include benefits of quitting; ways to cope with quitting; how to deal with a craving; medications that help with withdrawal; and creating a support system. Call the Lodi Health Lung Health Line at (209) 339-7445 to register.

Individual Stork Tours At Dameron

Wednesdays 5 to 7 p.m.: Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton, offers 30 minute guided tours that provide expecting parents with a tour of Labor/Delivery, the Mother-Baby Unit and an overview of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. New mothers are provided information on delivery services, where to go and what to do once delivery has arrived, and each mother can create an individual birthing plan. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN (209) 461-3136or www.Dameronhospital.org.

Brain Builders Weekly Program

Thursdays 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Lodi Health and the Hutchins Street Square Senior Center offer “Brain Builders,” a weekly program for people in the early stages of memory loss. There is a weekly fee of $25. Registration is required. Information or to register, call (209) 369-4443 or (209) 369-6921.

Infant CPR and Safety

Second Thursday of month 5 to 7 p.m.: Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton, offers a class to family members to safely take care of their newborn. Family members are taught infant CPR and relief of choking, safe sleep and car seat safety. Regarding infant safety, the hospital offers on the fourth Thursday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m. a NICU/SCN family support group. This group is facilitated by a Master Prepared Clinical Social Worker and the Dameron NICU staff with visits from the hospital’s neonatologist. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN (209) 461-3136 or www.Dameronhospital.org.

Group Meetings for Alzheimer’s Patients, Caregivers

Thursdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.: The Alzheimer’s Aid Society of Northern California in conjunction with Villa Marche residential care facility conducts a simultaneous Caregiver’s Support Group and Patient’s Support Group at Villa Marche, 1119 Rosemarie Lane, Stockton. Caregivers, support people or family members of anyone with dementia are welcome to attend the caregiver’s group, led by Rita Vasquez. It’s a place to listen, learn and share. At the same time, Alzheimer’s and dementia patients can attend the patient’s group led by Sheryl Ashby. Participants will learn more about dementia and how to keep and enjoy the skills that each individual possesses. There will be brain exercises and reminiscence. The meeting is appropriate for anyone who enjoys socialization and is able to attend with moderate supervision. Information: (209) 477-4858.

Crystal Meth Anonymous Recovery Group

Free Diabetes Class in Spanish

Second Friday of every month: Participants will learn the basics about blood sugar monitoring, healthy foods, portion sizes, medications and self-management skills from a certified diabetic educator during this free class. St. Joseph’s Medical Center, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information and registration: (209) 461-3251. Learn more on St. Joseph’s diabetes programs at www.StJosephsCares.org/Diabetes.

National Alliance on Mental Health: Family-to-Family Education

Saturdays 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: NAMI presents a free series of 12 weekly education classes for friends and family of people with major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, borderline personality disorder, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and co-occurring brain disorders. Classes will be held at 530 W. Acacia St., Stockton (across from Dameron Hospital) on the second floor. Information or to register: (209) 468-3755.

Big Brother/Big Sister

Second Sunday of month: Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton, has a one-hour class meeting designed specifically for newborn’s siblings. Topics include family role, a labor/delivery tour and a video presentation which explains hand washing/germ control and other household hygiene activities. This community service class ends with a Certification of Completion certificate. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN (209) 461-3136 or www.Dameronhospital.org.

Outpatient Program Aimed at Teens

Two programs: Adolescents face a number of challenging issues while trying to master their developmental milestones. Mental health issues (including depression), substance abuse and family issues can hinder them from mastering the developmental milestones that guide them into adulthood. The Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offered by St. Joseph’s Behavioral Health Center, 2510 N. California St., Stockton, is designed for those individuals who need comprehensive treatment for their mental, emotional or chemical dependency problems. This program uses Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to present skills for effective living. Patients learn how to identify and change distorted thinking, communicate effectively in relationships and regain control of their lives. The therapists work collaboratively with parents, doctors and schools. They also put together a discharge plan so the patient continues to get the help they need to thrive into adulthood.

For more information about this and other groups, (209) 461-2000 and ask to speak with a behavioral evaluator or visit www.StJosephsCanHelp.org.

Stork Tours in Lodi

Parents-to-be are offered individual tours of the Lodi Memorial Hospital Maternity Department, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi. Prospective parents may view the labor, delivery and recovery areas of the hospital and ask questions of the nursing staff. Phone (209) 339-7879 to schedule a tour. For more information on other classes offered by Lodi Health, visit www.lodihealth.org.

PUBLIC HEALTH

San Joaquin County Public Health Services General Information

Recorded message line at (209) 469-8200, extension 2# for English and 3# for Spanish.

For further information, individuals may call the following numbers at Public Health Services:

For general vaccine and clinic questions, call (209) 468-3862;

For medical questions, call (209) 468-3822.

Health officials continue to recommend these precautionary measures to help protect against acquiring influenza viruses:

Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol based sanitizers.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve, when you cough or sneeze.

Stay home if you are sick until you are free of a fever for 24 hours.

Get vaccinated.

Public Health Services Clinic Schedules (Adults and Children)

Immunization clinic hours are subject to change depending on volume of patients or staffing. Check the Public Health Services website for additional evening clinics or special clinics at www.sjcphs.org. Clinics with an asterisk (*) require patients to call for an appointment.

Lodi Health Center: 300 W. Oak St.; (209) 331-7303 or (800) 839-4949.

Immunizations: Friday 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

Tuberculosis clinic*: Friday 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

HIV testing: second and fourth Friday 1:30-4 p.m.

WIC (Women, Infants & Children) Program

Does your food budget need a boost? The WIC Program can help you stretch your food dollars. This special supplemental food program for women, infants and children serves low-income women who are currently pregnant or have recently delivered, breastfeeding moms, infants, and children up to age 5. Eligible applicants receive monthly checks to use at any authorized grocery store for wholesome foods such as fruits and vegetables, milk and cheese, whole-grain breads and cereals, and more. WIC shows you how to feed your family to make them healthier and brings moms and babies closer together by helping with breastfeeding. WIC offers referrals to low-cost or free health care and other community services depending on your needs. WIC services may be obtained at a variety of locations throughout San Joaquin County:

Tracy (209) 831-5930

Flu Shots in Calaveras County

Fall brings cooler temperatures and the start of the flu season. Getting flu vaccine early offers greater protection throughout flu season. The Calaveras County Public Health Department recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get flu vaccine every year. Flu season can start as early as October and continue through March. “Seasonal flu can be serious,” said Dr. Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County health officer. “Every year people die from the flu.” Some children, youth and adults are at risk of serious illness and possibly death if they are not protected from the flu. They need to get flu vaccine now.

If you care for an infant less than 6 months or people with chronic health conditions, you can help protect them by getting your flu vaccine. Even if you had a flu vaccination last year, you need another one this year to be protected and to protect others who are at risk. The Public Health Department will offer five community flu clinics:

The flu vaccine is $16. Medicare Part B is accepted. No one will be denied service due to inability to pay. For more information about the vaccine or the clinics, contact the Public Health Department at (209) 754-6460 or visit the Public Health website at www.calaveraspublichealth.com.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

What You Need to Know About Joe’s Health Calendar

Have a health-oriented event the public in San Joaquin County should know about? Let me know at jgoldeen@recordnet.com and I’ll get it into my Health Calendar. I’m not interested in promoting commercial enterprises here, but I am interested in helping out nonprofit and/or community groups, hospitals, clinics, physicians and other health-care providers. Look for five categories: Community Events, News, Ongoing, Hospitals & Medical Groups, and Public Health. TO THE PUBLIC: I won’t list an item here from a source that I don’t know or trust. So I believe you can count on what you read here. If there is a problem, please don’t hesitate to let me know at (209) 546-8278 or jgoldeen@recordnet.com. Thanks, Joe

We reserve the right to remove any content at any time from this Community, including without limitation if it violates the Community Rules. We ask that you report content that you in good faith believe violates the above rules by clicking the Flag link next to the offending comment or fill out this form.

Blog Author

Joe Goldeen

Joe Goldeen has been with The Record since 1990. He is an award-winning journalist and member of the California Endowment Health Journalism Fellowship. He is a native of Northern California with a bachelors degree in political economy from the ... Read Full